Describes use of automobile test reports in the mechanics portion of introductory physics. Topics covered using the reports include graphing data, graphical analysis, applications of kinematical equations, dynamics problems, and occasionally, such topics as conversion, rotational motion, noise, and significance of error. Suggests modifying…

If two rockets are identical except that one engine burns in one-tenth the time of the other (total impulse and initial fuel mass of the two engines being the same), which rocket will rise higher? Why? The answer to this question (part 1 response in v20 n6, p410, Sep 1982) is provided. (Author/JN)

A school building was originally used while investigating the acceleration of a free-falling body due to gravity. Because it was difficult to measure time accurately over such a short distance, an alternative method using a rocket was used. Materials needed and a description of the activity are provided. (Author/JN)

Describes the author's experience with a model structure used to demonstrate the difference between the idealized behavior predicted by theory and the actual behavior of a real structure. The model is a truss bridge with a span of 1.5 meters. (Author/SK)

Reviews the accomplishments in physics previous to 1931 and compares them to accomplishments during the past 50 years. (JN)

Presents background information on and instructions for constructing a Hero's water fountain. Includes photographs of the apparatus from old textbooks and one in the collection of the National Museum of History and Technology at the Smithsonian Institution. (SK)

Background information and procedures for demonstrating physical phenomena to groups are described: a red plastic sheet that changes to blue, a group activity for understanding energy transfer, and hanging a spoon from one's nose to illustrate forces involved in static equilibrium. (SK)

Describes some scientific concepts illustrated by and sources of Sterling engines. Includes an elementary version of their theory. (JN)

Following a discussion of scientific opportunities for astronomy (galaxies and the universe, stars, and planets/life/intelligence), four programs recommended by the National Academy of Sciences' Astronomy Survey Committee are described, indicating areas that must be strengthened before undertaking the programs. Ongoing projects are also…

He-Ne laser experiments suitable for an undergraduate laboratory are described. The topics covered are cavity stability, self-mode-locking coherent interactions between pulses and laser medium, and spontaneous transverse mode locking. (Author/DS)

Describes an air track experiment which involves a massive particle incident on a fixed wall with a light particle trapped in between. An analysis for this experiment, which is intended for junior and senior college students, is also included. (HM)

Presents four notes that report new equipment and techniques of interest to physics teachers. These notes deal with collosions of atoms in solids, determining the viscosity of a liquid, measuring the speed of sound and demonstrating Doppler effect. (HM)

Makes a recommendation for more direct teaching of the basic principles of mechanics. Contends that students currently learn mechanics in terms of standard examples. This causes difficulty when the student is confronted with a problem that can be solved from basic principles, but which does not fit a standard category. (GS)

Discusses the performance of a sprinting swimmer in biomechanical terms, and presents a theoretical model to evaluate the mechanical work and power of a swimmer. (SK)

Describes an electric circuit permitting easy observation and measurement of the response of a damped harmonic oscillator to impulsive excitation. The impulse analysis is carried out and related to experimental observations. The phenomenon of resonance is then interpreted and demonstrated, and through it, contact is made with Fourier analysis.…